How to Plan an Amazing Camping Trip with Teenagers
When I first thought about taking my teenagers camping, I was a bit nervous. Would they enjoy it? Would they feel disconnected from their gadgets and the comforts of home? To be honest, I wasn’t sure. But after several successful camping trips with my teens, I can say that planning a camping trip with teenagers can be one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences you can have as a family. I’ve learned a lot along the way, and in this guide, I’m going to share how to plan a camping trip that will keep your teenagers engaged and excited about spending time outdoors.
1. Involve Your Teens in the Planning Process
One of the first things I learned when planning a camping trip with teenagers is the importance of getting them involved in the process. As much as we, as parents, may have an idea of what a perfect camping trip looks like, teens are more likely to enjoy the experience if they feel a sense of ownership in the planning. When I included my kids in choosing the camping location, selecting activities, and even picking out gear, they were much more enthusiastic about the trip.
For example, when we were planning our first family camping trip, I let my son choose the campsite, and my daughter helped pick out the meals we’d be cooking. This created a sense of excitement for them and made them feel like their opinions mattered. Plus, it gave us something to bond over before we even arrived at the campsite.
Beyond just planning the logistics, involving your teens in the process also helps them feel more connected to the adventure. Whether it's picking out a new tent or choosing a trail to hike, they’ll appreciate the fact that their input is part of the family decision-making process.
2. Choose the Right Camping Location
Choosing the right camping location is crucial when it comes to keeping teenagers interested and engaged. Not all campsites are created equal, and some may be better suited for teenagers who are looking for adventure, excitement, and the chance to disconnect from technology.
On our first camping trip, we chose a campsite that was relatively remote, with limited activities. While the scenery was beautiful, my teens quickly became bored without much to do. From that trip, I learned the importance of finding a campsite that offers a mix of outdoor activities that will appeal to teens. Look for campsites near lakes, rivers, or forests where they can enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, or mountain biking.
For example, one of our most memorable camping trips was to a location near Pine Cliff Resort, which offers a range of teen-friendly activities like hiking, rock climbing, and even organized nature scavenger hunts. Not only did my teens enjoy the variety of activities, but they also got to explore the natural beauty of the area, which sparked a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.
3. Prepare Teen-Friendly Camping Gear
Having the right camping gear can make a huge difference, especially when you're camping with teenagers. In my experience, I’ve learned that teens don’t always enjoy the same gear we used when we were younger, so it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable and well-equipped.
For instance, we invested in comfortable sleeping bags that are suited for different weather conditions, since our teens tend to be picky about warmth. In addition, we made sure to bring a portable power bank so that they could charge their phones and devices. While we encouraged them to disconnect from screens, having a bit of modern convenience during down time helped them feel more at ease in the wilderness.
Another tip is to make sure that they have suitable clothing and footwear. Teenagers are often hard to please when it comes to outdoor gear, so make sure they’re wearing breathable, moisture-wicking clothes for hiking and exploring. Comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for long walks or outdoor adventures, and if they’re interested in fishing or water sports, make sure they have suitable gear like waterproof jackets or shoes.
4. Plan Fun Activities to Keep Them Engaged
One of the best parts of camping with teenagers is the opportunity to engage in fun and challenging activities together. But without planning the right activities, it can be easy for teens to lose interest and retreat into their phones. Over the years, I’ve learned the key is to mix outdoor challenges with relaxing, low-pressure activities to keep everyone involved.
Hiking is always a great activity, but make sure the trail isn’t too long or difficult, as that can discourage teens. I’ve found that a 3-5 mile hike with scenic views and a picnic spot halfway through is the perfect balance for my teens. They love the adventure, but they also appreciate the chance to relax and eat along the way.
We also love playing games at the campsite. One of our favorites is "capture the flag," which is an excellent way to get everyone involved in some friendly competition. Other great options include frisbee, kayaking races, or stargazing contests. Teenagers also love cooking over the campfire, so letting them take charge of cooking one night is a fun and engaging way to bond. It’s a win-win: they get to show off their culinary skills, and the whole family gets to enjoy a delicious meal.
5. Encourage Tech-Free Time, but Don’t Force It
One of the most challenging aspects of camping with teenagers is encouraging them to unplug from their devices. While it’s tempting to insist on a tech-free camping trip, I’ve found that it’s better to take a more flexible approach. Instead of banning phones altogether, I suggest setting specific times when they can use their devices—for example, during breaks or while winding down at the end of the day.
In our family, we use tech-free time to enjoy nature, play board games, or simply sit around the campfire. It’s surprising how much teenagers enjoy disconnecting when they have something fun to do. They might resist it at first, but once they’re out there exploring, fishing, or playing games, the devices often get forgotten.
By finding a balance between digital downtime and outdoor activities, I’ve been able to help my teens enjoy the camping experience without making them feel like they’re missing out on their social lives back home.
6. Emphasize the Benefits of Outdoor Time
Finally, I’ve realized that the best way to get teenagers excited about camping is to emphasize the benefits of being in nature. Teens may not always realize it, but time outdoors offers numerous physical, emotional, and mental benefits. From reducing stress and improving mental clarity to building stronger family bonds, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy a weekend in the wild.
During our trips, I’ve talked to my teens about how nature helps them relax, recharge, and connect with the world around them. When they begin to see the value in it, they start to look forward to the next camping adventure. Sharing stories about the animals we’ve encountered, the stars we’ve seen, and the memories we’ve made helps them appreciate the experience on a deeper level.
If you're looking for a great place to plan your next camping trip with teenagers, I highly recommend checking out Pine Cliff Resort, which offers a perfect balance of outdoor activities and relaxation. Whether you want to go hiking, kayaking, or simply relax by the fire, it’s an ideal destination for families looking to bond in nature.
